The Fiber

In this episode of The Fiber, Garret O’Leary and Steve Smith (CRO of LiveOak Fiber) sit down with Dr. Liz Robison—former Northwest Florida State College professor, U.S. Air Force nurse, and healthcare leader.Dr. Robison shares insights from her unique career path, from serving in the military to leading in healthcare settings—and how those experiences now shape her work at the intersection of technology and medicine.The conversation dives deep into one of the most exciting developments in healthcare today: the use of AI in training the next generation of nurses. Dr. Robison explains how AI-powered simulation is transforming nursing education, helping students build critical thinking skills, improve decision-making, and better prepare for real-world patient care before ever stepping into a clinical environment.If you’re interested in healthcare, education, technology, or leadership, this episode offers a fascinating look at how innovation is reshaping the future of care.

In this episode, we sit down with Christopher Saul, publisher of Mid Bay News, for a behind-the-scenes look at local journalism on the Emerald Coast. Chris shares insights into the stories he’s covered, how he determines what’s newsworthy, and the ethical considerations that guide his reporting. From breaking news to responsible storytelling, this conversation dives into what it really means to serve a community through journalism.

In this episode of The Fiber, Garret O’Leary sits down with a very special guest—LiveOak Fiber’s first-ever customer… his brother, Sean O’Leary.While it might sound planned, it actually came down to timing. Because of where LiveOak’s fiber network construction began and when service first became available, Sean’s home was among the first eligible for installation—making him the very first customer to sign up.In this conversation, we cover:What it was like being LiveOak Fiber’s first customerThe early experience of getting fiber internet installedSean's Musical past Sean’s work as a real estate investor on the Emerald CoastWhether you’re curious about fiber internet, building a network from the ground up, or real estate along the Emerald Coast, this episode has a little bit of everything.🎧 Listen to The Fiber on:Apple Podcasts & Spotify

In this episode of the Fiber Podcast, Garret sits down with Jim Wells, owner of Papa's Smokehouse in Niceville Florida. Jim talks Garret through what motivated him to start Papa's Smokehouse, what makes the food they serve so delicious, why he loves the local community, and why he loves serving them. 

In this episode of The Fiber Podcast, Garret O’Leary sits down with Rob Strano, former professional golfer and owner of Strano Golf in Niceville, Florida.Rob spent 18 years competing professionally, including time on the PGA Tour and other professional tours, before transitioning into coaching and player development. Today, he runs Strano Golf, a premier golf academy where players of all skill levels work to improve their game using advanced golf simulators and modern training technology.During the conversation, Rob shares stories from his professional golf career, what it was like competing at the highest levels of the game, and how those experiences shape the way he now coaches players.Garret and Rob also discuss: • Rob’s journey through professional golf • The transition from touring professional to coach • How technology is changing the way golfers train • What players of all skill levels can do to improve their gameIf you're a golf fan or someone looking to improve your game, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.🎧 Listen to The Fiber Podcast: YouTube | Apple Podcasts | Spotify📍 Strano Golf – Niceville, Florida

In this episode of The Fiber Podcast, we’re introducing you to Raynette Palmer, LiveOak Fiber’s Community Engagement Manager for the Savannah market.Raynette shares her background, what community engagement really looks like day-to-day, and how LiveOak Fiber is connecting with local organizations, businesses, and neighborhoods throughout Savannah.From showing up at local events to building meaningful partnerships, this conversation gives you a behind-the-scenes look at how we’re working to be more than just an internet provider — we’re aiming to be an active part of the communities we serve.If you live in the Savannah area or want to learn how LiveOak Fiber engages locally, this episode is for you.🎧 Listen to The Fiber Podcast: YouTube | Apple Podcasts | Spotify📍 Serving Savannah and surrounding communities👉 Learn more about LiveOak Fiber: [link]

On this episode of The Fiber, Garret O’Leary sits down with Steve Smith, Chief Revenue Officer at LiveOak Fiber, for a candid conversation to close out 2025 and kick off 2026 with momentum.We break down:💡 What LiveOak learned as a company in 2025🚀 What customers and communities can look forward to in 2026📍 How we’re planning for growth across our markets🍽️ And yes… we definitely talk food (because how could we not?)Whether you're a customer, community partner, or just love keeping up with the fiber internet world, this episode is the perfect way to get a look behind the scenes at LiveOak Fiber.📌 Watch now to hear what’s coming next for high-speed fiber internet in the Southeast!👇 Subscribe for more episodes of The Fiber

In this episode of The Fiber, hosts Garret O’Leary and Steve Smith sit down with David Schmidt, Business Manager at BluePoint Financial and Fort Walton Beach City Council Member.David shares insight into the ongoing projects shaping Fort Walton Beach, how local leadership is driving growth, and what’s ahead for the city. He also talks about balancing his professional career with public service and the importance of community involvement in local progress.Tune in for an inside look at the developments transforming Fort Walton Beach and the people making it happen.

In this episode of The Fiber, hosts Garret O’Leary and Steve Smith sit down with Jennifer Conoley, President and CEO of Florida’s Great Northwest, to talk about economic development across the Florida Panhandle.Jennifer shares insights into how the organization drives growth, attracts new businesses, and supports the communities that make up Northwest Florida. From workforce development and infrastructure investment to regional collaboration and innovation, this conversation dives deep into what makes the Panhandle a thriving place to live and work.Tune in to learn how Florida’s Great Northwest is shaping the future of the region—one opportunity at a time.

In this episode, we sit down with Jayme Nabors and Brett Divine, hosts of Nicotine & Jetfuel and founders of Beach Weekend, for a high-energy conversation about building brands, fueling growth, and standing out in competitive industries.We cover: ⚡ The story of LiveOak Fiber — how we got started and what sets us apart from the competition ⚡ Building a brand people actually connect with ⚡ Jayme & Brett’s journey with Beach Weekend — how it started, what they’ve learned, and where it’s headed next ⚡ The entrepreneurial mindset it takes to grow in today’s marketIf you’re an entrepreneur, business leader, or just someone who loves hearing the behind-the-scenes of building brands, this one’s for you.🔔 Subscribe to Nicotine & Jetfuel: https://www.nicotineandjetfuel.com/ 📺 Watch more episodes: https://www.youtube.com/@nicandjetfuel—About Nicotine & Jetfuel Nicotine & Jetfuel is the podcast for entrepreneurs who want more than just a business — they want a brand people believe in. Hosted by two friends, founders, and family men, the show blends unfiltered business lessons with stories from launching brands, chasing freedom, and failing forward.No fluff. No formulas. Just the fuel you need to build bold.

In this episode of The Fiber, hosts Garret O’Leary and Steve Smith talk with Nick Palumbo, Savannah City Council member and Executive Director of Start Up Savannah.We dive into Savannah’s thriving startup culture, why it’s an ideal city for launching a business, and the resources available to help entrepreneurs turn ideas into reality. Nick shares his insights on what it takes to succeed as an entrepreneur, the role Start Up Savannah plays in supporting local innovators, and how the city fosters growth for new businesses.If you’re an entrepreneur, small business owner, or just curious about Savannah’s business landscape, this conversation is packed with valuable takeaways.

In this episode of The Fiber, hosts Garret O'Leary and Steve Smith sit down with Kevin and Lexi from Southern Soul Academy to talk about their inspiring program, Gis for Growth. This initiative gives underprivileged kids the opportunity to train in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for free, helping them build confidence, discipline, and community through martial arts.Kevin and Lexi share how the program began, the impact it’s having on young lives, and their vision for expanding its reach.Tune in for a powerful conversation about giving back, mentorship, and using Jiu-Jitsu as a tool for growth.

In this episode of The Fiber, Garret O'Leary sits down with Jarret Johnson, former NFL linebacker for the Baltimore Ravens and San Diego Chargers, and current owner of Black Rifle Coffee Company in Niceville, FL.Jarret opens up about his 12-year NFL career (2003–2015), what fueled his success on the field, and the challenges of transitioning to life after football. We also dive into his journey of finding a new path, leading to his ownership of a Black Rifle Coffee franchise.Tune in for an inspiring conversation about hard work, reinvention, and community.

In this episode of The Fiber, Garret O'Leary sits down with local entrepreneur, business owner, and active duty military member Tevan Millette. Tevan shares his incredible journey—starting with his upbringing, the lessons he’s learned through military service, and how those lessons translated into building a successful civilian life filled with purpose-driven business ventures. Tune in for a candid and inspiring conversation about discipline, leadership, and ambition.

In this episode of The Fiber Podcast, Garret sits down with Savannah native Hughes Threlkeld, a senior golfer at the University of North Georgia, as he gears up for the Club Car Championship (April 4-7). We talk about his journey in golf, what it means to compete in a professional event, and his plans after graduation as he prepares to turn pro.Join us for a great conversation about golf, competition, and what’s next for Hughes!

In this episode of The Fiber Podcast, we sit down with Bert Brantley, President and CEO of the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce. Hosted by Garret O’Leary and LiveOak Fiber’s Chief Revenue Officer, Steve Smith, we dive into Savannah’s economic growth, upcoming projects, and how LiveOak Fiber is shaping the future of high-speed internet in the region.From major initiatives in the city to the importance of fiber-optic connectivity, we cover it all! Don’t miss this insightful conversation about Savannah’s future and our commitment to keeping communities connected.🔗 Subscribe for more episodes of The Fiber Podcast! 👍 Like, Comment & Share!

In this episode of The Fiber, we sit down with TikTok sensation and social media influencer Justin “Danger” Nunley! A local to the Emerald Coast of Florida, Justin is known for his hilarious videos and signature comedic style. We talk about everything—his thoughts on the potential TikTok ban, what’s next now that he’s officially out of the military, and (as a LiveOak Fiber customer) how much he loves our service. Tune in for laughs, insight, and a behind-the-scenes look at Justin’s journey!

In this episode of The Fiber, we sit down with three dedicated members of the Early Learning Coalition of the Emerald Coast. They share their career journeys, the goals that drive the organization, and the meaningful services they provide to families in our community. Join us as we explore how the Early Learning Coalition is working to create a foundation for lifelong success and what they hope to accomplish in the coming years to support the youngest members of the Emerald Coast.

In this episode of The Fiber, I sit down with Brad Hummel, Executive Director of the Firebox Initiative, to talk about the incredible journey of Southern Soul BBQ on Saint Simons Island, GA. Brad shares the story of how a devastating fire in 2010 rallied the community to help rebuild the award-winning restaurant and how this support inspired the creation of Firebox, a charitable initiative that helps local restaurants in need. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about Southern Soul's resilience and its impact on the community!

In this heartwarming episode of "The Fiber," host Garret O'Leary sits down with Nellie Bogar, founder of Youth Village, and her daughter Valerie Bogar, the organization's director. They dive into the impactful work Youth Village is doing in Fort Walton Beach, providing a safe and nurturing environment for children in Kindergarten through 8th grade. Nellie and Valerie share the history of Youth Village, the programs they offer, and their vision for the future. Discover how this mother-daughter duo is empowering the next generation to embrace learning, achieve their dreams, and become positive, self-sufficient members of the community.

In this special episode of "The Fiber" podcast, host Garret O’Leary sits down with Jody Craft, President and CEO of LiveOak Fiber, and Steve Smith, Chief Revenue Officer, to reflect on the journey and growth of LiveOak Fiber over the past 18 months. They discuss the challenges encountered and overcome during construction, the impact of new FCC regulations requiring ISPs to publish Internet broadband facts, and the company’s impressive expansion from 30-40 employees to over 100. Additionally, they share personal and professional growth experiences, insights on the recent $250 million funding acquisition, and reaffirm their commitment to LiveOak's mission: improving the quality of life in communities through technology. Join us for an in-depth conversation on LiveOak Fiber's past achievements and future aspirations.

In the latest episode of "The Fiber" podcast, host Garret sits down with Uriah Matthews, Executive Director of the Walton County Economic Development Alliance (WCEDA). Discover the history and strategic plan of the WCEDA, key initiatives driving the organization's success, and gain valuable insights into the dynamic growth and development of Walton County. Join us for an enlightening conversation on how WCEDA is shaping the future of this vibrant community.

In this episode of "The Fiber" podcast, Garret sits down with Scott McQuade, President and CEO of the Golden Isles Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB). Scott shares his journey to leading the CVB, the goals of the organization, and how they attract visitors to the beautiful Golden Isles. Discover their strategies for balancing historical preservation with modernization, and what makes this destination so special. Plus, enjoy some fun insights into the movies filmed in the area, including Anchorman 2 and X-Men: First Class.

Grab some snacks and get comfortable, because Garret had a great conversation with Emerald Coast local, Cole Randall. Cole is the founder and CEO of Precision Leadership and Project Manager at One Okaloosa EDC. In their conversation, Cole guides us through what led him to start Precision Leadership and how he aims to help develop the next generation of leaders. Cole also gives us a peek behind the scenes at One Okaloosa and some of the exciting things coming to the Emerald Coast. And last, but certainly not least, Garret and Cole talk about their favorite video games of all time. 

In this episode of "The Fiber" podcast, join Garret as he sits down with Rebekah Manley, the holistic realtor revolutionizing the real estate landscape on the Emerald Coast of Florida. Discover Rebekah's journey into real estate, her deep-rooted passion for industry reform, and her innovative mission to promote sustainability and environmentalism in construction. Don't miss this  conversation about reshaping the future of homebuilding.

Join Kimber in an engaging conversation with Bill Fallon, Glynn County Manager, in the newest episode of "The Fiber" podcast. Discover Bill's journey to Brunswick, his passion for community improvement, and the exciting projects shaping Glynn County's future. Gain insights into the priorities of his office for 2024 and beyond.

Join us for an insightful conversation with Anne Goodstein, Creative Director and Partner at h2o Creative, and founder of Via Connects, in the latest episode of "The Fiber" podcast. Anne shares her journey to partnership at h2o Creative, her inspiration behind founding Via Connects, and how both endeavors are shaping the landscape of branding and community empowerment.

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Lou Martinez, Vice President of Service Experience at LiveOak Fiber, in our latest episode of "The Fiber" podcast. Lou shares his journey to LiveOak, the challenges of deploying fiber optic networks, and the intricacies of ensuring customer satisfaction. Discover the driving force behind our commitment to service excellence.

In the latest episode of "The Fiber," Kimber engages in a fascinating conversation with Trent Edwards, President of Mears Broadband, our dedicated contractor spearheading the deployment of our fiber network. Dive into the origins of Mears Broadband, explore their specializations, and gain industry insights that illuminate the intricacies of bringing cutting-edge connectivity to the markets we serve.

In our newest episode of "The Fiber," join us for a heartfelt conversation with Tiffany Orner, the Military Engagement Manager for Forever Warriors. Tiffany shares her role, shedding light on the ways we can all contribute to supporting the military community. 

Join Kimber in a dynamic conversation with the charismatic, Ted Corcoran, President/CEO of the Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce, in the latest episode of "The Fiber" podcast. In this episode, Ted explores the impact that LiveOak Fiber has made in the community and what he hopes other members of the Chamber can learn to make further strides on the emerald Coast.

In the latest episode of "The Fiber" podcast, Kimber sits down with Tiffany Shurr, the Area Vice President for Cloud Solutions at Calix. Calix is one of our trusted partners who provides some of the hardware and software that helps us deliver world class fiber optic internet to our customers. Dive into the world of connectivity as Tiffany discusses her role, day-to-day endeavors, and unveils the exciting future plans of Calix, giving you an inside look at the innovations shaping the homes of tomorrow.

In our latest episode of "The Fiber" podcast, join host Kimber as she engages in a captivating conversation with Mayor Cosby Johnson, the esteemed leader of Brunswick, GA. Delve into Mayor Johnson's personal journey, his rise to mayoralty, and the vision he holds for the city of Brunswick. Discover the unique charm of this wonderful place through the eyes of its passionate mayor.

In this episode of "The Fiber" podcast, we are honored to host Nathan Sparks, the accomplished Executive Director of One Okaloosa EDC. Join us as Nathan shares his remarkable journey, from his path to leadership to the impactful projects he envisions for our community's future. Get inspired by the insights of this influential figure who is shaping the emerald coast of Florida.

In this episode of "The Fiber," join us as we sit down with Bobby Wagner, the passionate Mayor of Destin, Florida. Delve into the inspiring journey that led him to become the city's leader and discover his vision for Destin's future. Mayor Wagner shares his deep-rooted commitment to improving the community and discusses the meaningful impact it holds for him personally. From revitalizing neighborhoods to fostering collaboration, this conversation paints a vivid picture of a leader dedicated to steering Destin towards a brighter tomorrow. Tune in for an insightful discussion that illuminates the path to progress in this coastal gem.

In the latest episode of The Fiber, Kimber sits down with Ryan Moore, the President of the Golden Isles Development Authority, to talk about the future of the Golden Isles. Ryan has been with the the Golden Isles Development Authority for the last five years where he has played a major role in promoting and driving economic development in the Golden Isles of Georgia. He talks about what the organization has achieved and what future plans they have to continue growing the economic prowess of the Golden Isles. 

On this episode of The Fiber, Kimber McCafferty talks to Tim Bryan, President and CEO of NRTC. Tim provides his expert insight into a multitude of topics such as how NRTC impacts rural communities and how fiber optic internet will change the way people use the internet. 

Join Kimber as she takes you behind the scenes with Jody Craft, the President of LiveOak Fiber, and Steve Smith, the Chief Revenue Officer. Steve and Jody dive into their past and what led them to found LiveOak Fiber. 

LiveOak Fiber kicks off "The Fiber" this week with special guest Ajit Pai, Former FCC Chairman. LiveOak Fiber Marketing Director, Kimber McCafferty has a candid conversation with Ajit as it relates to ISP's, better broadband, and the fact that the FCC will now require an "itemized explanation" as to what consumers are actually paying for.